1. Empire of the Sun
This Australian band took Texas by storm. The group’s electronic alternative feel was perfect to hype people up at the start of the weekend. Some big hits, like “Alive” and “Walking on a Dream,” had all of Austin singing along. The band overflowed the stage with bright colors and an apsychedelic show of graphics, dressed in large red cloaks and golden headdresses.
2. Role Model
Tucker Pillsbury, better known as singer Role Model, was a hit at the festival with his sarcastic personality and great stage presence. The most anticipated part of his set, the mystery of which celebrity guest would be his Sally, did not disappoint. On weekend one, he brought out beloved Disney star and actress Hilary Duff, who was adored by the crowd. Lizzy McAlpine, a fellow singer songwriter who was featured on Role Model’s most recent album, came out on the stage on weekend two, twirling and dancing alongside Role Model. His set was balanced with a good mix between energetic bangers and more mellow heartbreak ballads.
3. Olivia Dean
Dean was sure to bring her British charm all the way to Austin. She has had an immense amount of success in the past few months with “Man I Need” going viral on TikTok. This set showed that all the hype was deserved. Dean had an amazing stage presence and had everyone singing along in the audience. Even though I didn’t know a lot of her music going in, she definitely beat my expectations and I can’t wait to get to know her music better
4. Doechii
Doechii was a standout star of the weekend. Her confident and alluring stage presence wowed the crowd. Not only was her singing amazing and full of energy, but her choreography was some of the best of the festival. Doechii was a perfect choice for the festival with a mix of viral hits, like Anxiety and DENIAL IS A RIVER, but also some lesser-known songs for the crowd to learn.
5. Sabrina Carpenter
Carpenter was one of the most popular headliners on the lineup, with arguably the biggest crowd of the weekend. Her guest appearances were a great surprise as she brought out legends Shania Twain and The Chicks. While her show was very upbeat and fun, it felt more like a performance than a concert. Her outfit changes definitely made the show more interesting, but it lost that more intimate, fun festival feeling.
6. John Summit
Summit was a fan-favorite of the concert with his iconic high-tempo hits that made the festival feel like a dance party. The set was filled with blaring strobe lights and lots of moshing. It was a bit overwhelming at times, but for the most part, it made for a fun set and a good end to the weekend. He would be a bit higher, but I don’t love house music as much as some of the pop indie singers higher up on my list.
7. The Favors
The Favors, a new band led by Ashe and Finneas, was one of the lesser-known sets, but their presence lit up the stage. ACL marked only the duo’s third time performing together, but their chemistry on stage was great. The performance was a nice, calm break between some of the higher-energy sets.
8. Djo
The indie rock artist definitely showed off his musical talent at the festival, but his mellow vibe doesn’t translate to the festival setting. The crowd felt a bit dead until he played “End of Beginning,” which was definitely a highlight of the weekend. Djo is a great artist, but he wasn’t quite a fan favorite based on the festival’s audience.
9. The Killers
The Killers were a late addition to the lineup, only being added after Doja Cat cancelled. The group’s music was pretty good, and the guitarists were insanely talented; however, it was a bit underwhelming. Having to fill the shoes of Doja Cat and share a time slot with John Summit meant that this set, unfortunately, was a bit of a letdown and flew under the radar.
10. Luke Combs
While Combs is very popular, his set fell a bit short for me. Country music just didn’t match the vibe of the rest of the festival, and his set dragged on. I must admit, I am a bit biased as I’m not the biggest country fan. Overall, “Ain’t No Rain in Oklahoma” and “Fast Car’ were the best parts for me.
